Job searching 101: Writing a killer resume

Writing the perfect resume is difficult—in part because opinions and ideas vary on what exactly makes a good one! There are a few basic points, though, that most people would agree on.

Your resume should be well-organized, concise, and clean (no typos!). Additionally, it should highlight your accomplishments. Think of it as your opportunity to humble brag about all the great things you were able to achieve at your previous positions.

How important is your resume, really? “Your resume is your first impression to a hiring manager,” says CNP Recruiter Jamie Jensen. “It is important that it is succinct, clear, and fully illustrates your experience.”

One of Jamie’s resume rules to live by is to make sure your most relevant experience is listed first. If you are applying to be a Program Manager, for example, then your program management experience should be listed at the very top of your resume, even if it isn’t your most recent position. “If the hiring manager doesn’t see it within 10 seconds, they move on,” advises Jamie. Don’t forget: there are many ways to organize a resume besides chronologically!